Keep your Pet Safe this 4th of July 

Holidays should be enjoyed with precious memories. Unfortunately, the 4th of July is known by animal shelters across the country as the day more dogs run away from home than any other day of the year! It's important to take the necessary precautions to keep your pet safe. Dogs can hear at much higher and lower frequencies than humans, making them more susceptible and sensitive to loud noises. As enjoyable as fireworks can be for humans, pets’ sensitive ears must be protected. For this GrangeKnows article, we’ll provide several tips you can utilize to keep your dog safe this 4th of July.  

Proper Identification  

Make sure your dog is wearing a secure collar with all current identification and contact information. This is the first step someone can take to returning a lost dog to it’s home.  Visit your local Grange Co-op store and ask about PetScribe I.D. tags. They are quickly and easily inscribed with all the information needed to reunite you with your pet. Include information such as your phone number, a family members phone number, an address, and your vet’s phone number as a last resort if needed.  

Leave your dog in an enclosed, cool & safe location 

Parades, concerts and outdoor firework displays are not enjoyable spaces for your dog. Even if they are generally comfortable in large crowds, or fine with loud noises, do not assume they will be comfortable during the 4th of July festivities. It is best to leave your pet at home in a safe space. While a fenced backyard may seem safe, it is quite possible your dog will be frightened enough, even from just neighborhood fireworks, to escape. Even if your dog has not escaped or run away in the past there is always the possibility. Leaving your pet in the house where it is quieter and cool is the best option. However, this can produce unwanted results such as items being chewed up or accidents left around the house if they are unattended. Providing a safe, enclosed space for your pet is best, such as a crate.  

Products to help keep your pet calm and safe 

Grange Co-op recommends a high-quality crate to keep a pet from escaping out of the yard or being destructive in your home. You can purchase wire or plastic crates at all our store locations or online. Our wire crates feature heavy-duty wire your dog will be unable to break. Plastic crates create a safe, more “cave-like”, environment and are often the place a highly-anxious dog will feel safest. 

Grange Co-op also carries a variety of over-the-counter remedies that help diminish restless, anxious, or unwanted behaviors. Many of our products are all-natural and non-sedating. Liquid drops and calm balm are nontoxic, fast acting and may help reduce apprehension in your pet caused from fear of fireworks and other loud noises. Another option is Quiet Moments Calming Aid soft chews which are Veterinarian formulated to calm and relieve stress from anxious dogs.  Order online or visit us in-store to find the right anti-anxiety formula for your pet. 

Please take these appropriate steps to care for your pet no matter how confident you are they will be safe this 4th of the July. May your holiday be filled with fun and relaxing memories. Take the necessary precautions to ensure you and your pet are ready for the events.